08 February 2010 17:00
Save the Tote update
Over 6000 people plan to protest to save the Tote.
editor@australiantimes.co.uk
Last week, we mentioned the unfortunate closure of one of Melbourne’s iconic music venue, The Tote.
New liquor licensing laws has placed Victorian amplified live music venues in the same category as ‘high risk’ for violent venues, and put pressure on owners to cut opening hours and reduced profitability.
Music bodies are now in talks with Tony Robinson, The Victorian Minister for Justice, to try and prevent these laws from causing further damage to the Melbourne live music scene.
On the 23rd of Feb, coinciding with the 34th anniversary of ACDC’s famous ‘It’s A Long Way To The Top’ film clip shoot down Swanston Street, a collective of musicians and music fans under the banner of S.L.A.M (Save Live Australia’s Music) are organising a protest in support and celebration of the music scene in Victoria where current liquor licensing laws threaten to pull the plug on live music.
The infamous RocKwiz Orchestra with guest performers will lead the rally, repeating the three chords from ‘It’s A Long Way to the Top’ in the back of a flat bed truck as thousands of musicians and fans holding placards and instruments will protest the ridiculous laws. It’s coming up to election time and here’s your chance to show the government what you think.
Almost 6000 people have RSVPed on Facebook already, meaning this will be one of the biggest protests in Melbourne for some time.
You can sign the Fair Go For Live Music orgainisation’s ‘Save The Music’ petition at www.tonedeaf.com.au.
Sign the petition here.